Highlights of Royal India - 14 Days

Welcome to India. Delhi is a monumental city blending ancient bazaars, British-era boulevards, Mughal palaces, and intricately carved temples and tombs. On arrival at Delhi International Airport, independently make your way to your hotel.

Delhi - Agra. Today we explore both Old and New Delhi. We visit Raj Ghat, the serene cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi, before driving past India Gate and the President’s House. We continue to the Baha’i Lotus Temple, a marble structure symbolising peace, followed by the Qutub Minar, a 240-foot brick minaret surrounded by an impressive Indo-Islamic complex.

We then drive to Agra, home to the world-famous Taj Mahal. While the city is rich in Mughal history, the Taj remains its greatest masterpiece, built in remembrance of Mumtaz Mahal by Emperor Shah Jahan.

The evening is at leisure. You may explore Agra’s markets, take a cycle rickshaw ride, or visit a local restaurant.

We begin with an early-morning visit to the Taj Mahal (closed Fridays). Considered the pinnacle of Mughal art, it is admired for its symmetry, craftsmanship, and stunning marble inlay work. After soaking in the morning light, we return to the hotel for a demonstration of local marble craftsmanship.

Optional: Half Day Tour of Agra

Begin with a visit to the Itmad-Ud-Daulah, known as the Baby Taj, the first Mughal structure built entirely from marble. Continue to the UNESCO-listed Agra Fort, originally a military stronghold later transformed into a palace and, eventually, the place where Shah Jahan spent his final years under house arrest.

Agra - Jaipur. We drive to Jaipur, stopping at Fatehpur Sikri on the way. Founded by Emperor Akbar in 1570, this short-lived Mughal capital is admired for its elegant palaces and red-sandstone courtyards. Although abandoned due to water shortages, it remains one of the finest preserved examples of Mughal architecture.

Later, we observe a demonstration of gem-cutting and polishing. On arrival in Jaipur, often called the Pink City for its rose-coloured old town buildings, we check in to the hotel.

Optional: Authentic Rajasthani Dinner with a Local Family

You may enjoy a warm traditional welcome, learn about local customs, and savour a homemade Rajasthani meal featuring classic dishes such as dal-bati, curries, lentils, and traditional sweets.

This morning we travel to Amber Fort, a 16th-century stronghold set on a hillside overlooking the old trade routes. Built by Maharaja Man Singh, it combines defensive design with ornate palaces and courtyards. The site has also served as a film location.

The afternoon is free, or you may join an optional city tour.

Optional: Half Day Jaipur City Tour

Begin at the Hawa Mahal, built for the royal women to observe street processions. Continue to the Jantar Mantar, one of the world’s largest astronomical observatories, featuring precision instruments from the early 1700s. You may also wish to visit nearby markets such as Johari Bazaar, known for jewellery, textiles, and handicrafts.

Jaipur - Pushkar. Before breakfast, you may choose to join an optional sunrise hot air balloon flight over Jaipur.

We then drive to Pushkar, a sacred town framed by hills and desert landscapes. Best known for its annual camel fair, Pushkar is also home to one of the few temples in the world dedicated to Lord Brahma.

On arrival, we walk through the holy town, visit Pushkar Lake, and explore the 8th-century Brahma Temple. We also experience a special Pooja ceremony at a lakeside ghat.

Optional: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in Jaipur

You can enjoy aerial views of forts, palaces, and surrounding countryside as the city wakes beneath you.

Pushkar - Udaipur. After breakfast we drive to Udaipur, a city of lakes founded in 1559 by Maharana Udai Singh. Often known as Rajasthan’s most romantic city, its palaces and ghats are set against the Aravalli Hills.

After checking in, the rest of the day is free for you to explore or to join an optional activity.

Optional: Sunset Cruise on Lake Pichola

Sail past Udaipur’s palaces and ghats before stopping at Jag Mandir, a 17th-century island palace once used as a refuge by Prince Khurram, later Emperor Shah Jahan.

We begin at the City Palace, a sprawling complex overlooking Lake Pichola. Started by Maharana Udai Singh and expanded over generations, it features grand courtyards, gardens, and a museum displaying royal artefacts. We then visit the crystal gallery before walking to Jagdish Temple, a 17th-century Hindu shrine known for its intricate carvings.

We end the day exploring Udaipur’s old city, where the streets are lined with art studios, spice stalls, and traditional shops.

Udaipur - Jodhpur. We travel to Jodhpur, stopping at the impressive Ranakpur Jain Temple. Built in the 15th century, it is famed for its 1444 uniquely carved marble pillars and detailed stonework. On arrival in Jodhpur, the afternoon is at leisure.

Jodhpur - Jaisalmer. This morning we visit Mehrangarh Fort, one of India’s most majestic hill forts, along with the elegant Jaswant Thada cenotaph.

We then drive to Jaisalmer, founded in 1156 by Prince Jaisal. Rising from the Thar Desert in golden sandstone, the city retains a medieval charm with narrow lanes and beautifully carved havelis. After checking in, you may explore at leisure.

Today we explore Jaisalmer Fort, often called the Golden Fort for its honey-coloured stone. Within the walls are palaces decorated with lattice screens, carved stonework, and 12th to 16th-century Jain temples.

We continue to the city’s famous havelis, including Nathmalji-ki-Haveli and the ornate Patwon-ki-Haveli. Outside the city walls lies Gadi Sagar Lake, the original water source that led to Jaisalmer’s founding.

Optional: Unique Camel Ride at Sam Dunes

You may enjoy a camel ride across the sweeping desert dunes at sunset, followed by refreshments and folk music at a desert camp.

Jaisalmer - Bikaner. After breakfast we drive to Bikaner, a city rich in Rajput heritage. On arrival, the remainder of the day is free. Bikaner’s palaces, temples, and havelis offer a glimpse into its princely past.

Bikaner - Mandawa. We visit Junagarh Fort, begun in the 16th century and expanded over the next three hundred years. Inside the sandstone walls are beautifully decorated palaces, including the red-and-gold Lal Niwas and the frescoed Badal Mahal.

We then drive to Mandawa, known for its painted havelis. On arrival we take a walking tour to see Chokhani and Ladia Havelis and the Saraf Haveli quarter.

Mandawa - Delhi. After breakfast we drive back to Delhi, where your tour comes to an end. Make your way to the airport or your next destination.